One of the top referees of the country in the 1990s, Ghosh was known for his quick on-field decisions, firm control over proceedings and smooth conduct of high-profile matches.
Born on April 10, 1952, Ghosh, from Bengal, became a FIFA referee in 1990 and retired in 1997. He officiated in top tournaments like pre-FIFA World Cup, pre-Olympics, AFC Club Championships, SAFF Cup, Jawaharlal Nehru Cup, etc.
After retirement, Ghosh continued to be associated with refereeing – he was a Referees’ Instructor and AIFF Match Commissioner.
AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, in his condolence message, said, “It is really sad to hear that Sumanta-da is no more. He was a doyen of Indian refereeing and his invaluable contribution to the game will always remain with us. I share the grief with his family.”
AIFF Secretary General Dr Shaji Prabhakaran, said: “Sumanta Ghosh was a top class referee, a learned Instructor and Match Commissioner. The football fraternity will miss him. May his soul rest in peace.”