Changing your name officially in Uttar Pradesh, like in other states of India, involves several steps, with the Gazette notification being a crucial part of the process. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get your name change published in the Gazette in Uttar Pradesh.
1. Preparing the Necessary Documents
Before approaching the Gazette office, you need to gather and prepare the following documents:
- Affidavit: A sworn affidavit declaring your intention to change your name. This affidavit should be notarized.
- Newspaper Publication: Proof of name change published in two newspapers (one local and one national).
- Identity Proof: Copies of Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any other government-issued ID.
- Address Proof: Voter ID, passport, utility bills, etc.
- Passport-sized Photographs: Recent photographs for the application forms.
2. Affidavit for Name Change
An affidavit for a name change is a legal document that declares the change of name. This affidavit must be signed by a notary public. Here’s a sample format:
AFFIDAVIT
I, [Current Name], residing at [Your Address], aged [Your Age] years, do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:
- That my name is [Current Name].
- That I am residing at the above-mentioned address.
- That I am [Reason for Name Change].
- That I hereby change my name from [Current Name] to [New Name].
- That henceforth I shall be known as [New Name] for all purposes.
Deponent
(Signature of Deponent)
Signed before me this [Date].
(Signature of Notary/Judicial Magistrate)
3. Newspaper Publication
You need to publish a notice about your name change in two newspapers: one local and one national. The notice should include:
- Your current name
- Your new name
- Affidavit details
- Your address
Here’s a sample format for the ad:
CHANGE OF NAME
I, [Current Name], son/daughter of [Father’s Name], residing at [Your Address], have changed my name to [New Name]. Henceforth, I shall be known as [New Name].
[Your Signature]
Keep the original copies of these advertisements as they are required for the next step.
4. Gazette Notification Process
Step 1: Application Submission
Visit the Department of Publication office or its official website to download the name change form. You can also approach the local government press where such matters are handled.
- Application Form: Fill out the name change application form. This form can often be downloaded from the Department of Publication’s official website or obtained from the government press.
- Attach Documents: Attach the following documents to the application form:
- Original affidavit of name change
- Original newspaper advertisements
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)
- Address proof (Voter ID, passport, etc.)
- Passport-sized photographs
- A formal request letter for the name change in the Gazette
Step 2: Fee Payment
Pay the required fee for the Gazette notification. The fee varies and can be paid via demand draft or as specified by the Department of Publication.
Step 3: Verification
Submit your application along with all required documents to the Department of Publication. The officials will verify your documents and process your request. Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information to avoid any delays.
5. Publication in the Gazette
After the verification process, your name change will be published in the Government Gazette. You will receive copies of the Gazette notification, which serve as official proof of your name change. These copies are essential for updating your name on all official documents.
6. Updating Your Records
Once you have the Gazette notification, you need to update your name on all official documents:
- Aadhaar Card: Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre with the Gazette notification and other required documents to update your name.
- PAN Card: Submit a request for name change through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal along with the Gazette notification and other necessary documents.
- Passport: Apply for a re-issue of the passport with the new name at the Passport Seva Kendra.
- Bank Accounts: Update your name in all bank accounts by submitting the Gazette notification and other required documents.
- Driving License: Approach the Regional Transport Office (RTO) with the necessary documents to update your name.
- Voter ID: Submit an application for name change through the National Voters’ Services Portal with the Gazette notification.
7. Tips and Considerations
- Be Thorough: Make sure all details are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Keep Copies: Keep multiple copies of the affidavit, newspaper advertisements, and Gazette notification for future reference.
- Inform Relevant Parties: Notify your employer, educational institutions, and other relevant parties about your name change.
- Legal Advice: Seek legal advice if you are unsure about any step to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Conclusion
Changing your name in Uttar Pradesh involves a structured process with specific legal requirements. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully change your name and ensure it is recognized officially across all platforms. This process not only formalizes your new identity but also ensures that your new name is legally documented and recognized.