Why did Lord Dufferin favour the formation of the Congress?

Lord Dufferin, the then Viceroy of India, favoured the formation of the Indian National Congress for several reasons:

1. Channel for Expressing Indian Opinion: Lord Dufferin saw the formation of the Congress as a safe and controlled outlet for the expression of public opinion in India. He believed that it would serve as a platform for educated Indians to discuss their grievances and aspirations.

2. Diverting Revolution: The British were aware of the growing discontent among Indians due to their policies. They feared that this could lead to a revolution. By allowing the formation of the Congress, they hoped to divert this revolutionary energy into constitutional channels.

3. Creating a Buffer: The British also saw the Congress as a buffer between the government and the masses. They believed that the Congress leaders, being moderate and loyal to the British, would help in pacifying the masses and preventing any direct confrontation.

4. Understanding Indian Sentiments: The British also hoped that the Congress would help them understand the sentiments of the Indian people better. They believed that this would help them in formulating policies that would be more acceptable to the Indians.

5. Control and Manipulation: The British believed that they could control and manipulate the Congress to serve their interests. They saw it as a tool to legitimise their rule and policies.

However, the Congress soon outgrew these expectations and became a major force in the Indian independence movement.