Why in the news?

World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, underscores the significance of journalism in society, tracing its roots back to pivotal moments in history.
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, founded by James Augustus Hicky in 1780, marked the inception of Indian journalism, serving as a platform for social discourse and political critique.

Who was James Augustus Hicky?

Born in Ireland in the 1730s, James Augustus Hicky ventured to India, then known as the “Jewel in the Crown of the British Empire“, in search of better opportunities.
Faced with initial setbacks, including debts that led to his imprisonment, Hicky demonstrated resilience by setting up a printing press within the jail premises.

‘Hicky’s Bengal Gazette’ was the first newspaper ever published in India (indeed in Asia), with its inaugural edition released on January 29, 1780.
Hicky served as its founder-editor, aiming to cater primarily to the European community in Calcutta.
He initially focusing on local issues such as road repairs and maintenance.
The newspaper later delved into broader societal concerns, including government corruption and civic issues.
Despite its reputation for gossip and salacious content, the Gazette also published articles critical of the British East India Company and advocated for infrastructure development and sanitation improvements.
Hicky’s newspaper was printed once a week on Saturday, and retailed for Rs 1.
Its circulation was estimated to be around 400 copies per week, although possibly more.

The Gazette faced legal challenges, including multiple libel lawsuits filed by prominent figures such as Governor General Warren Hastings in 1780s and missionary Johann Zacharias Kiernander.
He described Hastings in an article as being Robert Clive’s “miserable successor”.
Hicky’s bold stance against powerful figures, including scathing critiques of Hastings’ expansion policies, led to his imprisonment and financial ruin due to legal fees and penalties.
The publication was ceased on 30 March 1782.

Despite its eventual closure due to legal pressure and financial constraints, ‘Hicky’s Bengal Gazette’ left an indelible mark on Indian journalism.
Hicky’s pioneering efforts laid the groundwork for the development of a vibrant media landscape in India, inspiring subsequent generations of journalists and press pioneers.
The Gazette’s brief but impactful existence demonstrated the power of the press in advocating for societal change and holding the powerful to account.

[2020] The Vital-Vidhwansak, the first monthly journal to have the untouchable people as its target audience was published by:

(a) Gopal Baba Walangkar

(b) Jyotiba Phule

(d) Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar