Thanks guys for sharing your experiences.

@bbmb: Do you know how long you friend had to wait and if he had to submit additional documents?

From what i know, people from India and Taiwan in similar situations were asked to submit resume, publication list, research summary etc, which were then sent to DC for clearance by the consulate. 

For me, my passport is still with them (9 days today) and haven't asked for anything other than what I submitted during interview (very general stuff).  I have return ticket for 29th. I guess I would have to cancel that in a few days if I still haven't heard from them. What a mess!

Note: Don't have any arrest or illegal history. The guy (a Nepali guy) who handed me the 221g slip asked me questions about my travel history (none other than US)  and employment hostory (none).