Nepal Police Headquarters has instructed national women’s volleyball player and police constable Punam Chand to report to the office within seven days after authorities stated that she had been absent from duty for more than two months while playing club volleyball in Australia.
According to a public notice issued by Nepal Police, Chand has been asked to explain her absence after allegedly failing to respond to earlier notices sent to her registered address. Officials claim she has been absent from duty since late March.
Chand, who plays as an outside hitter for Nepal’s national women’s volleyball team and is associated with Nepal Police Club, is reportedly currently representing a Sydney-based volleyball club in Australia.
The development comes during Nepal’s hosting of the ongoing CAVA Women’s Volleyball Championship, where Chand’s absence has attracted attention. She had initially been included in the preliminary training squad and reportedly participated in training before leaving midway to travel to Australia.
Police officials said the action follows Nepal Police regulations, under which personnel absent without authorization are issued notices.
Local reports suggest Chand had previously received warnings but did not respond, leading authorities to make the matter public.
The issue has also revived discussions about a growing trend in Nepali women’s volleyball, with several national and senior players moving abroad, particularly to Australia, in search of better opportunities.
Reports indicate that several experienced players from Nepal’s national setup have relocated overseas in recent months, forcing selectors to introduce younger and less experienced athletes into the team.
Sports analysts in Nepal have described the situation as part of a wider transition period for women’s volleyball in the country, raising concerns over the impact on team experience and continuity in international competitions.
Chand has been considered one of Nepal’s notable performers in domestic volleyball and has represented both Nepal Police Club and franchise teams in national leagues.
It remains unclear whether Chand will return to Nepal within the seven-day deadline or what disciplinary action may be taken if she fails to comply with the police directive.