The Australian High Court has granted an interim injunction, blocking the government’s attempt to return 153 asylum seekers to the “Sri Lankan government, its military or its agents”, reported The Australian.

Justice Susan Crennan granted the injunction until 4pm local time on Tuesday, and noted that “the position of Tamil minority appears problematic” and that they had “made out a prima facie case for urgent relief”.

However she also noted that “it was not entirely clear what the next step for the plaintiffs” was and the application “appears somewhat speculative”.

17 Indian fishermen detained in latest SL Navy arrest (29 June 2014)

“UNHCR understands that "enhanced screening procedures" were used as a basis for determining whether the 41 individuals involved raised claims for protection which required further consideration. Without further information UNHCR is not in a position, at this time, to confirm whether they were in accordance with international law. UNHCR has previously made known its concerns to Australia about its enhanced screening procedures and their non-compliance with international law.”

“This is despite the UK and others calling for such an investigation since 2009. As a result, the UN Human Rights Council has passed a resolution that establishes an international investigation, which we strongly support.”

Ambassador Michele Sison speaking in Colombo on Friday

The US Ambassador to Sri Lanka has called on the government to take “meaningful and concrete steps” to address concerns on governance, reconciliation, justice, and accountability.

Speaking at an event marking the 238th independence day of the United States, Ambassador Michele Sison praised the “longstanding and warm ties” between the two countries.

The reception, hosted by the US Embassy in Colombo, was attended by Ananthy Sasitharan, councillor in the Northern Provincial Council and R Sampanthan, the leader of the Tamil National Alliance.

A USAID sponsored programme aimed at voter education has been called off, after pressure from the Sri Lankan government, including Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

The programme, called 'educating voters so as to help with elections in the country', was advertised in several national papers, but civil society organisations have now been informed that the funds have been withdrawn and no applications are being taken, reported Ceylon Today.