Why Congress Accepted Dominion Status

The Congress was willing to accept dominion status despite its being against the Lahore Congress (1929) spirit because

(i) it would ensure a peaceful and quick transfer of power;

(ii) it was more important for the Congress to assume authority to check the explosive situation; and

(iii) it would allow for some much needed continuity in the bureaucracy and the army.

For Britain, the dominion status offered a chance to keep India in the Commonwealth, even if temporarily, considering the economic strength, defence potential and greater value of trade and investment in India.