Who referees a gatka bout?
A · Advanced · Scoring and fouls · 1 of 1A ground referee runs the bout, giving the commands and showing cards. Side referees round the ring raise red or blue flags to confirm points and watch the line. A desk with a judge, scorer and timekeeper records points and fouls. Each team may use one video referral a bout. Objections cost Rs 1,000; appeals go to a jury within 15 minutes.
How it works
- Ground referee: runs the bout.
- Side referees: flags for points.
- Council: four rotating referees.
- Chief referee: final say.
- Desk: judge, scorer, timekeeper.
- Referral: one per bout.
- Objection: Rs 1,000, ball thrown.
- Appeal: written, within 15 minutes.
The glossary has the ground referee, the side referees, the referee council and chief referee, the referral and video umpire, the judgement desk and the Jury of Appeal (gatka).
Tricky cases
Can the scorer change points?
No. Only mark what is signalled.
Is the objection fee returned?
No.
How many referrals per bout?
One.
Can a coach signal from the side?
No. That is outside interference.
Why the rule exists
Several referees round a circle see touches that one cannot.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Referral | One | L G 9.2.1 |
| Objection | Rs 1,000 | L G 7.9.1 |
| Appeal | 15 minutes | L G 8.13 |
From the rule book
NGAI and World Gatka Federation, Gatka Rule Book (updated 8 July 2021), rules 5.14, 5.55, 5.67, 5.68, 7.7.13, 7.9.1 and 8. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: NGAI and WGF Gatka Rule Book, July 2021.