Top Stories at 5 PM: Key Events Across India and Beyond

This roundup provides you with the top stories at 5 PM, covering a wide range of events from India and beyond. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a 'secular' civil code to Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose condemning hospital vandalism, and much more, find out all the key updates.

Following are the top stories at 5 PM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly advocated for a 'secular' civil code and simultaneous elections during his Independence Day speech in New Delhi. Modi emphasized that the current framework is 'communal' and fosters 'discrimination'.

In Kolkata, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose condemned the vandalism at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident comes amid ongoing protests by junior medics over the alleged rape-murder of a trainee doctor.

Highly decorated IPS officer Nalin Prabhat has been appointed as Special Director General of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. He will assume this role after RR Swain's retirement on September 30.

The Congress criticized Prime Minister Modi for seating Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in the fifth row during the Independence Day celebrations, terming it as disrespectful to democratic traditions.

An all-women unit of the Border Security Force exchanged Independence Day greetings and sweets with their Bangladesh counterparts at the West Bengal border, marking a historic first.

Under the 'Viksit Bharat' theme, India's Independence Day celebration at Red Fort featured members of the Indian Olympic contingent as special guests.

The Odisha government announced a one-day menstrual leave for state and private sector employees, as revealed by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin announced the launch of 'CM's Pharmacy Stores' to provide generic medicines at low cost to the public.

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud emphasized the importance of freedom and liberty, citing recent events in Bangladesh as a reminder of these rights.

Prime Minister Modi met India's Olympic contingent, with shooter Manu Bhaker demonstrating the pistol she used to win two bronze medals.

In international news, the Indian envoy to Nepal distributed dues worth Nepali Rs 55 million to the families of deceased Gorkha soldiers, celebrating India's 78th Independence Day. French President Macron and Russian President Putin greeted India on this occasion.

Thailand's Pheu Thai party announced Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its nominee for the new leader in a Parliament vote. Meanwhile, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal began investigating former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity.

(With inputs from agencies.)