Visitor Visa: "Hold Status"

[cincibratus]

My parents went for a visitor visa interview in Mumbai. Since my dad used to work in BARC, after a long interview the officer granted a visa to my mom and returned my dad's passport saying his visa is on Hold and needs some clearance. The officer also said that they will call back and let him know when he can go for another interview. Did any one came across similar situation? Does this mean that the visa is rejected or has a strong possibility of getting rejected?

Any inputs would be highly appreciated.

[immihelp]

Few people get into this kind of situation.

As he worked for BARC, some clearance may be required because it is related to nuclear programs.