New Delhi:
There is no confirmation so far on whether there are any Indians among those being held hostage at a popular cafe in Sydney, Australia, since early this morning.
"Nothing has been confirmed so far on whether anybody from India is among the hostages. It is a sensitive issue and I urge all of you to exercise restraint," said parliamentary affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu in Delhi.
He said the Ministry of External Affairs was in touch with the Indian High Commissioner in Australia. "Our initial information is that no harm has been done to hostages," Mr Naidu said.
There are about 90,000 Indians in Sydney.
An armed man has held several people hostage at the Lindt Chocolate cafe in Martin Place, a major shopping and pedestrian thoroughfare near the Sydney Opera House in the central business district of the city, since 9.45 am local time.
Terrified customers were seen pressed against a window, holding a flag with writing that appeared to be the Shahada, or profession of faith in Islam. It read: "There is no god but Allah; Mohammed is the Messenger of Allah."
After about six hours, five people ran out of the fire exit of the cafe. The police have said they are in touch with the gunman, who has reportedly demanded to speak to Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
The Indian consulate, about 400 metres from the cafe, has been closed down.
The external affairs ministry has said Indians can contact the High Commission at +61 419687008.