Times of India

President Trump sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV, labeling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy." Trump accused the pontiff of being soft on Iran's nuclear ambitions and opposing US military actions, while the Pope had called for peace and dialogue amid global conflicts.

Stock market recommendations: Mtar Technologies, and Syrma SGS have been picked as the top stocks to buy in the holiday-shortened trading week starting from April 13, 2026, by Motilal Oswal Wealth Management Research Desk. Let’s look at the details:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a vital win against Mumbai Indians, but concern grew as Virat Kohli did not take the field with an ankle issue. Despite the scare, skipper Rajat Patidar suggested that Kohli is likely fine. Kohli's half-century, however, etched his name in history as he became the first to score 1000 runs against MI.

Google has admitted to an error that mistakenly displayed Polymarket betting listings in its News section. These betting options, which resemble news stories, appeared alongside regular news and even in prominent blocks. The tech giant has since resolved the issue, stating the site is no longer surfacing in News.

A young software professional from Andhra Pradesh, Singireddy Sai Sree Hari Krishna, tragically drowned in Missouri's Meramec River while celebrating his birthday. Pulled down by underwater weeds, the 26-year-old's body was recovered by emergency crews. This marks the second such incident involving an Andhra youth in the US within two months, leaving his family and village in profound shock.

India's Vaishali Rameshbabu suffered a significant setback in the FIDE Candidates, losing to China's Zhu Jiner and relinquishing her sole lead. The Women's section is now wide open with both players tied at the top. Meanwhile, Javokhir Sindarov is on the cusp of becoming the challenger in the Open section, needing just a draw in his next match.

Dhurandhar 2 has achieved a remarkable Rs 1,712.98 crore worldwide in just 25 days, becoming the first Bollywood film to hit Rs 1,700 crore in Phase 1 without a Gulf release. Despite a dip after its strong opening, the spy-action flick's primary Hindi market drove its impressive India net collection of Rs 1,083.67 crore.

A 45-year-old woman, Mageshwari, died after being stabbed by her nephew and his associates following a family dispute. The attack occurred when Mageshwari intervened as her nephew attempted to forcibly take his estranged wife from her home. Police have arrested four individuals and upgraded the case to murder.

A 24-year-old BCom graduate allegedly died by suicide in Bengaluru, leaving a note accusing his lover of betrayal after a 6-7 year relationship. The woman reportedly ended the relationship due to parental disapproval, leading to a police compromise. Abhishek reportedly informed his lover via video call and WhatsApp before his death.

A sophisticated global phishing operation, centered around the "W3LL phishing kit," has been dismantled by the FBI and Indonesian authorities. This "full-service" platform enabled cybercriminals to steal thousands of account credentials and attempt over $20 million in fraud. The alleged developer was detained in Indonesia, marking a significant blow to cybercrime.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a formidable 240/4, powered by Phil Salt's 78 and Rajat Patidar's rapid 53. Virat Kohli contributed a steady 50. Mumbai Indians' chase faltered early as Rohit Sharma retired hurt on 19 due to a hamstring injury, leaving the daunting target unmet.

A study reveals Jallianwala Bagh compensation was calculated by income and dependents, leading to payouts from a few thousand rupees for deaths to under Rs 100 for minor injuries. This formula, linking life value to economic productivity, sparked public debate over "blood money" and colonial accountability.

Delhi Police's crime branch has busted a massive recruitment exam scam, arresting over 16 individuals, including four police officers. The syndicate, operating across multiple states, allegedly compromised Delhi Police and other Staff Selection Commission exams. Involved insiders facilitated remote desktop cheating, demanding lakhs for guaranteed selections. The operation has exposed significant vulnerabilities.

Bianca Andreescu’s missed serve on match point helped Kazakhstan defeat Canada 3-1 in the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers in Astana. Yulia Putintseva sealed the win in a tight three-set match. Kazakhstan advanced to the 2026 Finals, while Canada will now play in the Playoffs as Andreescu continues her comeback season.

Trump has declared an immediate naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following failed diplomatic talks with Iran. Trump stated Iran's alleged "extortion" would cease, vowing military action if necessary. This move, potentially illegal under international law, threatens global energy supplies, impacting major Asian economies and allies, while potentially benefiting the US.

President Trump has issued a stern warning to China, threatening a "staggering" 50% tariff if Beijing aids Iran militarily. He expressed confidence Iran would yield to US demands, asserting that tough rhetoric brought them to the negotiating table. Trump also detailed plans to blockade the Strait of Hormuz and warned of severe retaliation against any Iranian aggression.

Prime Minister Modi alleged a 'tukde-tukde gang' threatened to sever the Siliguri Corridor, accusing the TMC of supporting them. He criticized the TMC's appeasement politics, claiming it caused suffering and stalled development, including vital infrastructure projects. Modi promised a special package for North Bengal and urged voters to support the BJP for security and jobs.

Virat Kohli and Phil Salt's explosive 120-run opening partnership powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a strong start against Mumbai Indians. Salt's rapid 78 set the tone, while Kohli's 50 marked his 47th T20 century partnership, the most in the format. This stand laid a crucial foundation for RCB's innings.