The sale of IDBI Bank is facing new questions from its own staff. The United Forum of IDBI Officers and Employees has written to the Parliament’s Standing Committee on Finance. They want the government to look closely at how the bank is being valued. The employees believe that the current share price does not show the real worth of the bank’s massive assets. They are worried that a private buyer might get a 'windfall' (unexpected profit) by selling off prime land once the deal is done.

IDBI Bank started over 60 years ago as a development finance institution. During this time, it bought land, offices, and residential flats in top locations across India. These properties were bought at 'historical cost' (the price paid many years ago). Today, the market value in cities like Mumbai and Delhi is much higher. The employees argue that a strategic buyer is not just getting a banking license, but also a huge real estate portfolio that could be worth thousands of crores.

The Forum says the bank has a nationwide branch network, millions of customers, and a strong brand. If the valuation only looks at the stock market price, it might miss the 'embedded value' (hidden worth) of these assets. They are calling for a proper study to check the replacement value and the development potential of every property the bank owns. This is important so that public property is not sold off too cheaply to a private company.

One big fear is that a new owner could sell or lease 'surplus' properties to recover the money they spent to buy the bank. For example, if a buyer pays a certain amount for the stake, they could potentially get half of that money back just by selling one or two prime buildings in a metro city. The employees want to know if there are safeguards in the Share Purchase Agreement to prevent this kind of quick profit-making.

The employees also pointed out that much of IDBI’s land was given by the government for 'public purpose.' Some lands might have been given at concessional rates or through special laws. The Forum is asking for a 'property-by-property' legal audit. This audit would check if the land can even be transferred to a private owner or if it should legally return to the state government if the bank is no longer a public entity.

For bank officers and aspirants, this news is important because it affects the future of one of India's biggest banks. If the valuation is questioned, the sale process might slow down. Bankers should watch for the government's response and whether they appoint independent asset valuers to re-check the books. This story shows that selling a bank is not just about balance sheets, but also about the physical assets built over decades.