153 asylum seekers from Sri Lanka being held at sea after boat intercepted . The Australian government has been criticised for its handling of the refugee crisis and Australian government has a policy of not commenting on operational matters . Silence condemned by human rights advocates , critics of `` harsh '' policy .
153 asylum seekers from Sri Lanka being held at sea after boat intercepted . High Court hearing brought by lawyers seeking to stop handover to Sri Lankan authorities . Australian government has a policy of not commenting on operational matters . Silence condemned by human rights advocates , critics of `` harsh '' policy .