Reason that this reply at this stage (that is; currently file is awaiting review by VO) is making me to believe that BG checks have been completed:
1- As I shared earlier, BG clearance time of CSIS is 62 days (for 51% requests that CIC makes to them) to 110 (for 48% cases). Roughly speaking, we have passed that many number of days (avg 62 days from the date of our MR).
2- Right after my medicals, on Jan 23 - I lodged CSE and VCM replied that "background checks for your application are still on-going and may still take some months". Means for me, on Jan 23, 2014, BG checks were on and now (on Apr 08) file is awaiting to be reviewed by VO - means from Jan 23 to Apr 08, something / progress must have been made, which we should assume completion of BG.
3- As per OP 6-C (operational manual for FSW application received on or after May 04, 2013) under heading 14, sub-heading 14-1 (approving the application), a final review has to be taken place by the visa officer which definitely happens after medicals AND BG security clearance.................
Finally time will tell us that whether or not my understanding is right.........I wish so.