Deepak Neupane, principal of Bethal Educational Academy in Urlabari, Morang filed an application at the ward office of Damak Municipality-2 on Tuesday, calling on the local authority to help bring back child artist Ashok Darji. Music composer Tanka Budhathoki had taken away Darji from the school 17 days ago.

Darji has been out of contact since, the principal said. Bethal Educational Academy has reached an agreement with Darji’s parents on providing for his education up to Grade 12.

“Tanka had took away Darji saying that he will bring him back the next day, but he has not returned so far,” said Principal Neupane.