srikandi, 824 is very uncertain.
Which consulate are you doing CP ?. Some consulates accept AC-140. Why don\'t you try AC-140 ?. Mumbai/Delhi accept AC-140 and Chennai accept in very limited cases. It\'s all depends on which consulate you are from.
As far as I-824 is concerned, I have seen people who got approved after 10 mos. Good Luck.