What is the procedure for changing a name in India
Changing a name is a significant step for an individual in India, and it can be due to a myriad of reasons. A change name is generally carried out for religious, professional, or personal reasons. The procedure for changing a name in India has become more accessible over the years, but it can still be a time-consuming and complex process. Here is a detailed explanation of the process for changing a name in India.
Gather the Necessary Documents
The first step is to collect all the necessary documents for changing name. The essential documents include your birth certificate, PAN card, voter ID card, Aadhaar card, and passport. In case you have any other certificates, like marriage certificates or educational certificates, gather those too. These documents are required to verify your identity and to show that you are an Indian citizen.
Affidavit
After collecting all the necessary documents, the next step is to prepare an affidavit. An affidavit is a legal document that confirms your intention to change your name. You can either prepare an affidavit on plain paper or stamp paper. The affidavit must include your old and new name, reason for changing your name, and your signature. The affidavit must also be notarized by a notary public.
Publish an Advertisement
After preparing the affidavit, you must publish an advertisement in two newspapers, one in the local language and the other in English. The advertisement must contain your old and new name, reason for changing your name, and other relevant details. The advertisement is published to give the general public an opportunity to object to your name change. If no objections are received within thirty days of publication, you can proceed to the next step.
Obtain a Gazette Notification
The final step in the process is to obtain a Gazette notification. A Gazette notification is a government publication that confirms your name change. The notification is published by the government of India's official publication, and it is a crucial document that confirms your name change legally. You can obtain the Gazette notification by submitting the affidavit, newspaper clippings, and a copy of all other documents to the government publication department. It can take up to two months to receive the notification.
Conclusion
Changing your name in India can be a lengthy process, but it is essential to ensure that all the necessary steps are followed to avoid any legal problems in the future. The process includes collecting necessary documents, preparing an affidavit, publishing an advertisement, and obtaining a Gazette notification. It is always advisable to seek legal advice before initiating the name change process. With a little patience and the proper guidance, you can change your name in India legally.
Posted by Anshu