The process of Change name in gazette is an official and legal method used to ensure that your new name is recognized by the government, financial institutions, and other formal bodies. Whether you’re changing your name due to marriage, divorce, personal preference, or other reasons, following the proper procedure is essential. Publishing your name change in the gazette is a critical step in this process, as it serves as a public record, making your new name legally valid.
Prepare the Affidavit
The first step in the name change process is to create an affidavit. This document states your intention to change your name and must include your old name, new name, reason for the change, and other personal details such as your father’s or spouse’s name and address. The affidavit must be signed by you and notarized by a local notary. You can either draft the affidavit yourself or consult a lawyer to ensure all legal aspects are properly addressed.
Advertise in a Local Newspaper
After preparing the affidavit, the next step is to publish an advertisement in a local newspaper, announcing your name change. This is required to make the change public and allows for any objections to be raised. You should choose one local newspaper, in either the local language or English, and make sure to provide the correct details in the ad. The newspaper ad must include your old name, new name, and other identifying information such as your residential address. Keep the copy of the ad, as it will be required in the next steps.
Apply for Gazette Notification
Once your name change has been publicly announced in the newspaper, the final step is to apply for gazette publication. To do this, you need to visit the Government Press or submit your application online, depending on the state you are in. You will need to submit the following documents:
- A copy of your notarized affidavit
- A copy of the newspaper advertisement
- A request letter to the gazette office stating your intent for a name change
- Your identification documents (like Aadhaar card or passport)
- A passport-sized photograph
The application form for gazette publication must be filled out carefully and submitted along with the required fee. The fees and submission process may vary depending on whether you’re submitting online or at the Government Press.
Gazette Publication
After submitting your application, the government will process your request, and your name change will be published in the official government gazette. The timeline for this can vary, but it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. Once published, your name change is officially recognized by law. You will receive a copy of the gazette, which you should keep safely as this will be required when updating your name on legal documents like your PAN card, passport, and bank records.
Conclusion
The name change process in the gazette may seem complex, but following these simple steps will help ensure that everything goes smoothly. From preparing the affidavit and advertising in a local newspaper to applying for the official gazette notification, each step is crucial to making your name change legal and valid across various institutions.