Lord Dufferin called Congress representing only the elite a microscopic minority.

Background:
The Indian National Congress (INC) was formed in 1885 with the objective of promoting the interests of the Indian people and seeking reforms from the British colonial government. However, the British authorities soon became suspicious of the nationalist activities and intentions of the Congress.

Lord Dufferin's Perspective:
Lord Dufferin, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888, was one of the British officials who expressed suspicions about the Indian National Congress. He believed that the Congress represented only a small fraction of the Indian population and was not truly representative of the masses.

Calling Congress a "Microscopic Minority":
Lord Dufferin referred to the Congress as a "microscopic minority" because he believed that the organization primarily consisted of educated, urban, and elite Indians who were disconnected from the majority of the Indian population. He argued that the Congress did not have widespread support or influence among the masses.

Reasons for Lord Dufferin's Suspicions:
1. Limited Membership: The early members of the Indian National Congress were mostly educated professionals, lawyers, and journalists. This led Lord Dufferin to believe that the Congress had a limited membership and did not represent the diverse interests and aspirations of the Indian population.

2. Lack of Mass Appeal: Lord Dufferin observed that the Congress lacked mass appeal and was unable to mobilize large-scale support from the common people. He argued that the Congress's focus on intellectual debates and political discussions did not resonate with the majority of Indians who were struggling with economic and social issues.

3. Urban Bias: Lord Dufferin also criticized the Congress for its urban bias, noting that its leaders and activities were concentrated in major cities like Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras. He believed that the Congress's urban-centric approach alienated rural populations and prevented it from becoming a truly representative organization.

Impact of Lord Dufferin's Remarks:
Lord Dufferin's characterization of the Indian National Congress as a "microscopic minority" reflected the British authorities' skepticism and attempts to undermine the organization's credibility. However, his comments also highlighted the need for the Congress to broaden its base of support and engage with a wider cross-section of Indian society.

The Congress leadership recognized the importance of overcoming these criticisms and gradually worked towards expanding its membership, reaching out to rural areas, and addressing the concerns of the masses. Over time, the Congress became more inclusive and representative, transforming into a significant force that played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence.

Answer is b ) lord Dufferin.