Dhaka, Dec. 17 -- BNP leader Tarique Rahman has described himself as "half Sylheti" while addressing a Victory Day discussion in London, drawing loud applause from hundreds of expatriate Bangladeshis in attendance.

Tarique made the remark on Tuesday at an event held at City Pavilion.

As he made his way through a packed hall, he noted that a large number of people in the audience were from Sylhet, though others had come from different districts as well.

"Whether from Sylhet or elsewhere. I am also half Sylheti, so there's no point arguing."

London is home to a sizeable Sylheti Bangladeshi community, and his remark was met with rousing applause from the crowd.

Tarique appeared visibly relaxed and smiling as the crowd responded.

The BN...