There are multiple factors that led to the British withdrawal from India seeming imminent by 1946. These factors include the limitations of the British strategy of conciliation and repression, demoralization among the bureaucracy and loyalist sections, and the success of nationalist forces in the struggle for hegemony.

1. Limitations of the British strategy of conciliation and repression:
- The British adopted a strategy of conciliation towards the Indian National Congress (INC) during World War II, hoping to secure Indian support for the war effort. However, this strategy proved to be inadequate in addressing the growing demands for independence.
- The repression and violence employed by the British to suppress the Quit India Movement in 1942 further alienated the Indian population and intensified the demand for independence.
- The failure of the Cripps Mission in 1942, which aimed to secure Indian cooperation in the war in exchange for limited self-government, demonstrated the limitations of the British strategy.

2. Demoralization among bureaucracy and loyalist sections:
- The Indian Civil Service (ICS) and other administrative bodies, which had traditionally been loyal to the British, began to witness a decline in morale and support for the colonial rule.
- The ICS officers, who were often seen as the backbone of British administration in India, faced challenges in maintaining law and order due to the growing unrest and nationalist movements.
- The failure of the British to address the demands for better career prospects and representation for Indians in the bureaucracy further added to the demoralization among these sections.

3. Success of nationalist forces in the struggle for hegemony:
- The Indian National Congress, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses and demanding independence.
- The Quit India Movement in 1942 and subsequent mass protests showcased the strength and determination of the nationalist forces.
- The Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, also gained significant support and successfully articulated the demand for a separate Muslim-majority nation, which further weakened the British position in India.

In conclusion, the limitations of the British strategy, demoralization among bureaucracy and loyalist sections, and the success of nationalist forces all contributed to the British withdrawal from India seeming imminent by 1946. These factors highlighted the inability of the British to maintain control and effectively address the growing demand for independence.