The Bombay Catholic Sabha has declared December 4 a national protest day to highlight attacks on the community. 43 cases of violence, looting and criminal assault on Christian personnel and institutions have taken place in Gujarat alone, said a release. The Sabha, which represents around five lakh Catholics in the city, has distributed over five lakh black protest badges to be worn on the day. All 65 units of the Sabha will conduct public meetings and prayer services in their local areas, added the release.

In a related move, the Diocese of Vasai has also organised a peach march which will be followed by an inter-religious prayer service at the Vasai cricket ground. A group of 25,000 participants are expected at the rally.

Three nabbed for train theft

Three persons were arrested by the Railway police on Monday for robbing a woman of valuables worth Rs 16,500 at Andheri.

Fatima Abdul Unni (31), a Kalina resident, boarded the train at Bandraand was travelling in the second class ladies compartment between 5.40 pm and 5.55 pm when one Najma Khan (25) grabbed a gold chain from Fatima's neck and passed it on to her accomplice Sultana Sirajuddin (22). The duo also snatched Fatima's Seiko watch, Rayban sun glasses and Rs 1,500 in cash.

They got off at Andheri and handed over the booty to their accomplice Zameer Khan (25). However, the screams of Fatima and other passengers were heard by police personnel, who managed to nab Najma and Zaheer on the spot. Sultana managed to escape, but was nabbed later. The police have recovered the chain, watch and Rs 1,400 from the trio. Police Sub Inspector A N Amre is investigating the case.

Blood donation by the blind

The Lions International Dist 323 A1 has arranged a drive to collect blood from blind donors alone at the NAB headquarters at Worli on December 5 at 10.30 am. All blind donors will be given two kgs of onion free by the club. Those who wish to donate blood should contact the NABheadquarters, Khan Abdul Gafar Marg, Worli or call on 4935365/4936930.