Gorakhpur, July 23 -- Concluding his 81-day Gau Raksha Yatra in Gorakhpur on Wednesday, Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati criticised the government, alleging that democratic rights were under pressure and urging authorities to uphold constitutional freedoms and prioritise public welfare. Addressing devotees and mediapersons at Ram Janki Nagar, he claimed that people were finding it increasingly difficult to raise their voices and that institutions meant to safeguard democracy were facing growing pressure.The Shankaracharya also alleged that his Ashirvani Programme, scheduled in Lucknow on July 24, has not yet received administrative permission despite the venue charges having been deposited and a formal application submitted.Emphasising the need to protect constitutional values, he said democracy cannot survive without safeguarding citizens' rights and freedom of expression. He also reiterated his commitment to the cause of cow protection, saying the campaign would continue....