Understanding the Gazette Name Change Procedure in Rajasthan

1. Understanding the Gazette Name Change Procedure in Rajasthan Changing your name in the government records is a significant step that may be required for various personal or legal reasons. In India, the process of legally changing one’s name is published in the official Gazette, which is a public notification published by the government. For residents of Rajasthan, the procedure for changing your name in the Gazette follows a detailed process that ensures transparency and legality. Below, we’ll walk you through the entire process of Gazette name change in Rajasthan. Why Change Your Name? Before diving into the procedural details, let’s first understand why people may wish to change their names: 1. Marriage/Divorce: A common reason for changing one's name is after marriage or divorce. Women, especially, may choose to change their surname after marriage.

2. 2. Correction of Name: Mistakes in official documents such as birth certificates, passports, or school records can lead to discrepancies. In such cases, people may opt to change their name to match the correct version. 3. Astrological Reasons: Some people change their names based on numerology or astrology in the belief that it will bring good fortune. 4. Cultural Reasons: In some cases, individuals may wish to adopt a name that better represents their cultural or ethnic heritage. Step-by-Step Guide to the Gazette Name Change Procedure in Rajasthan Changing your name through the official Gazette in Rajasthan is a legal process that involves multiple steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do: Step 1: Drafting an Affidavit The first step in the name change procedure is to create a notarized affidavit that states your intention to change your name. This affidavit must contain the following details: ● Your current name. ● The new name you wish to adopt. ● The reason for the name change. ● A declaration that you have not changed your name for fraudulent purposes. This affidavit should be signed by you in front of a notary public. It is a formal declaration that your request is genuine and that you will be using the new name for all legal and personal purposes. Step 2: Advertise in a Local Newspaper Once the affidavit is ready, the next step is to publish an advertisement in at least two local newspapers. The advertisement should include the following information: ● Your current name. ● The new name. ● The reason for the name change. ● Your address and contact details.

3. One of the newspaper advertisements must be in the local language (Hindi or Rajasthani), while the other can be in English. This ensures that your name change is communicated to the public and that there are no objections from anyone who might have a legitimate reason to oppose the change. Step 3: Applying for Gazette Notification After the newspaper publication, you need to submit an application to the Rajasthan Government Gazette for the publication of your name change in the official Gazette. The application must be submitted to the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) of Rajasthan. Along with your application, you will need to submit: ● A copy of the notarized affidavit. ● A copy of the newspaper advertisements. ● Proof of identity (such as an Aadhaar card or passport) and proof of residence. ● A duly signed cover letter addressed to the Gazette Office requesting the name change. Once your documents are submitted, the Rajasthan Government will process the application. Step 4: Issuance of Gazette Notification If your application meets all the necessary requirements, the government will publish the name change in the official Gazette of Rajasthan. You will receive an official copy of the Gazette notification that reflects your new name. It is important to note that the Gazette publication serves as the official recognition of your new name. You can use this Gazette notification as proof of your name change when updating your official documents. Step 5: Updating Your Documents After the Gazette publication, you can proceed to update your name in various official documents, including: ● Passport ● Aadhar card

4. ● PAN card ● Voter ID ● Bank accounts ● Academic certificates ● Property records ● Driver’s license You will need to present the Gazette notification along with a request to the respective authorities to make the necessary changes in your records. Important Points to Remember ● The Gazette name change procedure in Rajasthan is legally binding only after the Gazette publication. The newspaper advertisement and affidavit alone do not suffice. ● It may take a few weeks for the Gazette to publish your name change after submission. ● Ensure that your name change does not conflict with any legal norms. If it’s determined that your name change might affect your legal or financial standing, your request may be denied. ● After the Gazette publication, you should keep a copy of the official Gazette as proof for future reference. Conclusion The process of changing your name through the Gazette in Rajasthan is an official and transparent procedure designed to ensure that the change is properly documented and widely acknowledged. By following the necessary steps, individuals can legally alter their names and update their official records. It is advisable to consult with a legal expert or professional to ensure that all documents are in order and the process is carried out without any issues. Changing your name is a significant personal decision, and the Gazette name change procedure in Rajasthan provides a structured method to make sure that your name is recognized legally and officially.