Cripps mission was an attempt in 1942 made by British government to protect Indian cooperation and support for efforts in World War II. During this period, both Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad were the official Congress negotiators with Cripps Mission.

The correct answer is option 'C', which states that Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad were the official Congress negotiators with the Cripps Mission.

The Cripps Mission was a delegation sent by the British government to India in 1942 to negotiate with Indian political leaders and seek their support for the British war effort during World War II. The mission was led by Sir Stafford Cripps, a senior British politician and member of the War Cabinet.

Now let's understand why Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad were the official Congress negotiators with the Cripps Mission:

1. Role of Pandit Nehru:
- Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was one of the prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress and a staunch advocate of India's independence.
- He had been actively involved in the freedom struggle and had emerged as a key figure within the Congress.
- Nehru was known for his strong ideological stance and his belief in a socialist, secular, and democratic India.
- His popularity and influence within the Congress made him a natural choice to represent the party in negotiations with the British government.

2. Role of Maulana Azad:
- Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a prominent Muslim leader and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi.
- He was the President of the Indian National Congress at the time of the Cripps Mission.
- Azad was known for his moderate and inclusive approach, emphasizing Hindu-Muslim unity and the rights of minorities.
- His presence as a representative of the Congress was crucial to ensure the support of the Muslim community in any agreement reached with the British government.

3. Congress's perspective:
- The Indian National Congress, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, had launched the Quit India Movement in 1942, demanding immediate independence from British rule.
- The Congress had been skeptical of the Cripps Mission and its proposals, which fell short of meeting their demands for complete independence.
- However, recognizing the importance of engaging with the British government and exploring all possibilities for independence, the Congress decided to send a delegation to negotiate with the Cripps Mission.

In conclusion, Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad were the official Congress negotiators with the Cripps Mission due to their prominent roles within the Congress and their ability to represent the diverse interests of the Indian people. Their participation in the negotiations was crucial in shaping the Congress's response to the Cripps proposals and in articulating the demands of the Indian freedom movement.