There is no basis to claims that various clauses have been included to the constitution, as no draft constitution or any other document has so far been prepared, it says.

It stresses the state will endevaour to protect and nurture Theravada Buddhism.

The constitutional committee headed by prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has so far discussed the electoral system, devolving powers to the provincial councils and the executive presidency only, says the statement.

Views of the public have been obtained for a new constitution, and those views have now been made public, but that is not a draft constitution, it stresses.

Those views will be submitted for consideration to the parliamentary subcommittees tasked with formulating a new constitution for the future well being of the country, the statement adds.