Orissa violence: Catholic institutions to 'close down' on Aug 29

New Delhi, Aug 26 (UNI) Catholic educational institutions all over the country would observe a 'close down' this Friday to express solidarity with ''suffering brothers and sisters'' in Orissa affected by the ''calibrated malicious campaign'' against Christians by unruly organisations of the state.

Calling for a 'bandh' on August 29, the Catholics Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) today said the Catholic community would hold peaceful rallies across the country to register its protest against repeated attacks one Christians.

''We have also exhorted people to observe a day of prayer and fasting on Sunday, September 7, to promote communal harmony and peace in the country,'' said CBCI president Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil.

Urging all political, religious and social organisations to desist from spreading communal hatred, the CBCI president said ''we appeal to the state and central government to take strong measures to curb violence.'' UNI AN SB AS1808