Finally got the visa today ;D ;D
!
But it was a struggle, if you are in the same boat, this might help.
App Rec - 15 October, 2013
DM - 30 July, 2014
Passport picked up - 21 August 2014
It took NDVO more than three weeks to hand over the passport. Two weeks after DM, they called us on August 13th, to inform us that the passport had been returned to them because they put the wrong address label. We checked our files and we had submitted the correct address. They made a mistake and didn't feel the need to apologize.
The person who called promised that he will mail it out August 14th via speed post. We expected to get it on August 16th, and of course it didn't show up. On August 18th, I (the sponsor) sent them a very stern email demanding they return the passport.
They called my wife on August 20th and asked her to come pick it up (they specifically stated that they are calling because of my email). They hadn't mailed the passport after promising to send it on the 14th. So she went and picked it up from Delhi the next day.
It is clear that NDVO employees do not give a *censored word*. And will not hesitate to make false promises. Anyone who is still waiting for the passport, send them stern emails, and ask your MP to do the same. They need a whip on their backs to get moving.
And hang in there everyone, and thanks for everyone for the support and information. This forum has been a god sent in these trying times.