A Complete Guide to Name Change Procedure in Mohali

1. A Complete Guide to Name Change Procedure in Mohali Changing your name is a significant step in one’s life. Whether it's due to personal reasons, marriage, adoption, or for professional purposes, knowing the proper legal procedure can save you a lot of hassle. In Mohali, Punjab, as in other parts of India, a name change involves a structured process that includes legal documentation, gazette notification, and sometimes court approval. This guide will walk you through the complete name change procedure in Mohali. Why Change Your Name? There are various reasons why someone might want to change their name. Some of the most common reasons include:

2. ● Marriage: Many individuals change their surname or first name after marriage. ● Divorce: After a divorce, one might want to revert to their original name. ● Religious or Spiritual Reasons: Some people may choose to adopt a new name for spiritual reasons. ● Cultural Identity: People often change their names to better align with their cultural or ethnic identity. ● Personal Preference: Sometimes, individuals simply prefer a different name due to personal preferences. ● Mistakes in Documents: If there is a spelling mistake or any other error in official documents, a name correction is required. Regardless of the reason, the procedure for a name change remains consistent, ensuring that the change is legally recognized. Step-by-Step Guide to the Name Change Procedure in Mohali 1. Affidavit for Name Change The first step in the name change process is to prepare an affidavit. An affidavit is a sworn statement that declares your intention to change your name. This affidavit should include: ● Your current name

3. ● The new name you wish to adopt ● The reason for the name change ● A statement confirming that you are not changing your name for fraudulent purposes ● Personal details such as address, age, and contact information In Mohali, you can get the affidavit prepared by a notary or advocate. It should be signed in front of a notary and stamped. The document must also be notarized to ensure its authenticity. 2. Newspaper Publication Once the affidavit is ready, you need to publish the name change in two newspapers (one in English and one in the regional language). The publication must include the details of your current name, the new name, and the reason for the change. The advertisement should be published in well-known newspapers that circulate in Mohali or Punjab. A copy of the newspaper containing the advertisement should be retained as proof of publication. 3. Gazette Notification The next step is to get the name change officially recorded in the government gazette. This is a crucial part of the name change procedure. The gazette serves as a public record and ensures that your name change is legally recognized. To publish the name change in the Punjab Government Gazette, you must submit the following documents:

4. ● A copy of the affidavit ● A copy of the newspaper advertisement ● A filled-out application form (available online or at the office of the Punjab Government) ● A government fee (which varies) The gazette publication process might take several weeks, so it’s important to follow up with the concerned authorities. 4. Updating Documents Once your name change is reflected in the government gazette, you can begin the process of updating your official documents. This includes: ● Aadhaar Card: Visit the UIDAI portal or the nearest Aadhaar center to update your name. ● Passport: If you have a passport, you will need to apply for a name change at the passport office. ● Voter ID: A name change can be updated through the Election Commission of India. ● Bank Accounts: Banks require you to submit the original gazette notification, along with the updated documents, for making the changes in your bank account details.

5. ● PAN Card: The name change needs to be updated by filing a request with the Income Tax Department. ● Driving License: You will need to apply for an update at the local RTO office. Each of these institutions may require specific forms, fees, or documents, so it’s essential to check with them beforehand. 5. Court Order (If Applicable) In some cases, especially for complex name changes or if your name change is contested, a court order might be required. A court order for name change will be needed if: ● You have a criminal record. ● You need a name change for religious reasons. ● There is ambiguity in the reasons for the name change. If a court order is required, you will need to file a petition in a family court in Mohali. After the hearing, the court may grant a decree for your name change. 6. Public Notice (Optional) Though not a mandatory requirement, some people opt for a public notice in local newspapers to further announce their name change. This can help provide additional transparency, especially if you want to avoid any disputes over your new name. Documents Required for Name Change Procedure

6. Here is a list of documents typically required for the name change procedure: ● Affidavit of Name Change ● Newspaper advertisement (English & Regional Language) ● Gazette notification application form ● Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, etc.) ● Address proof ● Photographs ● Court order (if required) Cost of Name Change in Mohali The cost of the name change procedure in Mohali varies depending on the type of service required. Generally, the costs are: ● Affidavit fees: Around INR 100 to INR 500 ● Newspaper publication: Varies between INR 500 to INR 2000 depending on the newspaper's popularity ● Gazette notification: Around INR 1000 to INR 1500 (for submission) ● Court fees (if applicable): Varies

7. It's always a good idea to check with local authorities for an exact estimate of the costs involved. Conclusion Changing your name in Mohali is a structured but straightforward process. By following the steps above — including creating an affidavit, publishing the name change in newspapers, getting it notified in the gazette, and updating your documents — you can ensure that your new name is legally recognized. Whether you are changing your name for personal, professional, or legal reasons, it is essential to follow the correct procedure to avoid any future complications. Always keep a copy of your gazette notification and other supporting documents safe, as they will be needed when updating your records in various institutions.