In the past decade, 10,000 have lost their lives fighting for control of the old British tea plantations in Assam, Northern India, and a recent union of rebel groups poses further complication. This shocking feature exposes an unreported war, much of which is focused around the state's lucrative tea plantations. The rebel groups argue colonialism is still rife; "We are fighting against the Indian state that is exploiting Assam. All wealth generated here is taken away". The Indian government have repeatedly sent in the army in a failing attempt to put down a bitter independence struggle. In recent years the battle has turned nastier with allegations the Government has sanctioned a new strategy - the death squads. The government insists that the rebels are all but defeated. Revealing interviews with estate managers facing kidnap and murder suggests otherwise. Evidence of collusion with Pakistan's Intelligence Service for the purchase of sophisticated firearms suggests the violence is becoming more aggressive and more widespread. As a result, the livelihoods of a million 'tea tribe' workers, who depend upon the industry,are in jeopardy. This piece powerfully shows that it is a struggle neither the Army or the guerrillas can win, and it is the millions who depend on the lucrative tea trade who are left the losers. A powerful insight into a conflict that has killed thousands, but barely penetrates Western consciousness.

Produced by ABC Australia