There can be an Indian among Sydney cafe hostages

The Indian government said they are not certain if there is any Indian among the hostages in a Sydney cafe taken captive by one or more suspected Jihadist even though there are reports that one of the many held inside is an Indian working with Infosys. 

"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," Parliamentary affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu said.

He said the Ministry of External Affairs keeping contact with the Indian High Commissioner in Australia. 

Meanwhile, Infosys has confirmed that there is an Indian employee of the IT behemoth inside the cafe with scores of other hostages.

"We can confirm that one Infosys employee is among the hostages at the Lindt Cafe in Sydney. We are also in the process of confirming the whereabouts of all our other employees in the city. We are in constant touch with the local authorities and Indian Consulate in Sydney for updates on the situation on ground. The family of the employee has been informed and we are extending all possible support to them in this difficult time," Infosys said in a statement quoted on CNN IBN.

An armed man- believed to be a Jihadist and a supporter of ISIS- on Monday took several people hostages in Lindt Cafe of Sydney in Australia, triggering a crisis even as several of his captives managed to escape.

Reports said police have locked down the downtown of Sydney on Monday after the hostage crisis unfolded.

"There is a police operation underway at Martin Place. Police and emergency services have responded and a number of streets around the area have been closed. The Martin Place train station is also shut," said the police in Sydney.

"Police are dealing with an armed incident and specialist officers are attempting to make contact those inside a café," Australian police said.

"Some nearby offices have been evacuated as a precaution. Anyone else in the area encompassing Hunter, George, Elizabeth and Macquarie streets bordering Martin Place is directed to remain indoors and away from open windows. Anyone in the vicinity but outside that area is free to leave their buildings.

"Police urge members of the public to remain calm and note that an appropriate police presence is in place.

"Police urge the media to be responsible in their reporting. Speculation can cause unnecessary alarm. We will attempt to keep you updated and Police will release more information when it has been confirmed," said the police in an update.

The man reportedly forced his hostages to show an Islamic flag and according to Sky News Australia has contacted three media outlets via the hostages. He reportedly asked for an ISIS flag and a phone conversation with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, CNN affiliate Sky News Australia reported.

Meanwhile, five people have managed to flee the cafe though many still remained inside captive.

According to Sky News Australia, the man has reportedly told hostages that he has planted four bombs.

The siege started at around 10am, said media reports.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Modi has expressed concern over the hostage crisis.

"The incident in Sydney is disturbing. Such acts are inhuman & deeply unfortunate. I pray for everyone's safety," he tweeted.