First editorial about ourselves

February 2, 1881

The projectors and conductors of The Tribune have no pet theories to maintain, nor any personal interests to serve through the medium of this journal. No considerations of pecuniary gain have incited them to this enterprise. They profess simply to act for the public weal.

• Read special write-ups to mark the 140th Foundation Day of The Tribune in the Features section

As the mouthpiece of the people, The Tribune will be conducted on broad and catholic principles. Our sympathies will be comprehensive. We shall not be identified with any particular race, class or creed, nor seek to give prominence to the views of any particular party.

But our paper, as the champion of the people, will not scruple to speak plainly against class interests nor shrink from boldly assailing them whenever they should happen to clash with the welfare of the masses. We will make known to the government the people’s grievances, hopes and aspirations. At the same time, our loyalty shall not be incompatible with a free but temperate and respectable criticism of measures and actions when they call for such criticism. It shall be our duty to echo the real feelings of the community. The paper would do its utmost to articulate, instruct and educate the mute voices of the masses, especially of those living in Upper India. In religious matters, we shall maintain a strictly neutral position. On social topics, our sympathies will be with a gentle and cautious course of reforms.

• Read special write-ups to mark the 140th Foundation Day of The Tribune in the Features section