Why in news?
Faculty, students and alumni of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) have been demonstrating against a draft Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2025 that proposes to replace the ISI Act 1959. They fear that the draft law would dilute the institute’s autonomy and change its character. Human chains and signature campaigns were seen on the ISI Kolkata campus, drawing national attention to the issue.
Background
The ISI was set up in 1931 by statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis to advance statistical research. It gained the status of an Institution of National Importance through the ISI Act 1959, which created a society governed by a council comprising eminent academics and government representatives. The institute has campuses in Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru and other cities and plays a key role in national planning and statistics.
A review committee constituted in 2021 recommended modernising the institute and revising its governance structure. Acting on these suggestions, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released a draft bill in 2025. The bill seeks to convert ISI from a registered society into a statutory body corporate with a government‑appointed Board of Governance.
Key provisions of the draft bill
- Board of Governance: The bill proposes a 9‑member board headed by a president appointed by the central government. The board would control appointments, finance and academic policies, replacing the existing council elected by ISI members.
- Statutory status: ISI would become a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal. Its society status under the Societies Registration Act 1860 would be repealed.
- Government oversight: The central government would hold powers to issue policy directions and audit accounts. Officers of the Indian Economic/Statistical Services could be deputed to the institute.
- Integration of centres: The bill integrates all regional centres and research units into a single statutory framework. It provides for the establishment of new campuses and professional schools.
Concerns raised by the ISI community
- Loss of autonomy: Critics argue that shifting from a society to a government‑controlled body could undermine academic freedom. They fear that ministry‑appointed board members may prioritise administrative efficiency over fundamental research.
- Lack of consultation: Students and faculty members say they were not consulted before drafting the bill. Protesters have demanded wider consultations with stakeholders before repealing the 1959 Act.
- Potential erosion of legacy: The ISI Act 1959 recognised the institute’s unique history and autonomy. Protesters worry that repealing it may erode the legacy built by Mahalanobis and subsequent scholars.
Significance
The debate highlights the delicate balance between autonomy and accountability in publicly funded research institutions. Supporters of reform say that a statutory corporate body could streamline governance, expand the institute’s reach and attract talent. Opponents argue that the ISI’s credibility stems from its independence and collegial decision‑making. How the government addresses these concerns will shape the future of one of India’s premier research institutes.
Source: TH
