C.P Ramaswami Iyer was the Dewan of Travancore State, when the Congress in Travancore launched a civil disobedience Movement against the autocratic government. Ramaswami Iyer served as Diwan from 1930 to 1947 ; during his tenure, many social and administrative reforms took place. However, at the same time, he is also remembered for the ruthless suppression of the communist organised Punnapra - Vayalar revolt, and his controversial stand in favour of an independent Travancore. He resigned in 1947 following a failed assassination attempt.