The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released a revised draft of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Bill 2025. MoSPI is inviting public feedback on this updated bill, with comments due by December 15 . The revised draft comes amid ongoing opposition from ISI students, researchers, and faculty members who claim the bill threatens the institute’s autonomy and accessibility.
MoSPI’s Rationale for the Bill
MoSPI published the revised draft on its official website,mospi.gov.in, on November 28 . This update followed a review of recommendations received for the previous version, published on September 25 . The ministry stated the proposed bill aims to elevate the Indian Statistical Institute from a registered society to a statutory body corporate. This change seeks to align ISI’s governance with other Institutions of National Importance (INIs). Examples of INIs include the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Becoming a statutory body would place ISI directly under a parliamentary act, standardizing its operational framework and administration.
ISI Community Opposes Draft Bill
Opposition to the ISI Bill remains strong among the institute’s community. Students, research scholars, and faculty members have voiced concerns regarding the draft’s provisions. They argue that certain rules in the bill could undermine ISI’s academic independence. Critics believe the changes may also impact accessibility and the overall research environment within ISI. Opponents specifically claim the bill could dilute ISI’s ability to operate independently. This includes managing its academic programs, research initiatives, and administrative functions without external interference.
Public Consultation Process and Deadline
MoSPI initially invited public comments on the first draft until November 3 . Based on the feedback received during this period, several changes were introduced to the bill. The updated draft is now available for public review. The ministry has set December 15 as the deadline for submitting further suggestions on the revised ISI Bill 2025. This process allows stakeholders and the public to contribute to the legislative drafting phase.
Concerns Over Autonomy and Accessibility
The core of the dispute centers on institutional autonomy. ISI stakeholders fear that becoming a statutory body under direct government oversight could reduce its operational flexibility. This flexibility currently allows ISI to innovate in curriculum design, research funding, and faculty recruitment processes. Reduced autonomy could lead to standardized frameworks, potentially hindering ISI’s unique academic approach and its ability to respond to evolving research needs swiftly.
Accessibility concerns relate to potential changes in admission policies, fee structures, or program offerings. These changes could make ISI less accessible to a diverse range of students and researchers. The institution’s current model supports broad access. Any shift could alter its inclusive character. Maintaining ISI’s distinct research environment, known for fostering independent thought and significant research, is also a key demand from the protesting community. They argue that top-tier research requires an environment free from undue external influence.
Collective Action and Unanswered Petitions
The opposition has taken collective action. Students, teachers, staff, and even former directors of ISI signed a mass petition. This petition called for the withdrawal of the draft regulations in their current form. It was submitted directly to MoSPI. As of now, MoSPI has not publicly responded to the specific concerns raised in this petition. Teachers at ISI Kolkata also voiced fears that the draft law could ‘dismantle Bengal’s heritage.’ This refers to the institute’s historical significance and unique academic model established in West Bengal, which they believe is threatened by the proposed changes.