Aadhaar Update Rules: People often overlook minor errors in government documents, but any mistake in an Aadhaar card can prove serious. Changing your name or surname is no longer as easy as it used to be. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has tightened the rules, and a simple affidavit will no longer suffice for major changes. You may now have to go through the entire ‘Gazette Notification’ process.
Have the rules changed for ordinary citizens?
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UIDAI has made the name change process more secure and formal. Previously, a letter from a local councilor or a simple notarized affidavit was sufficient. But now, if you are changing your entire name or adding/removing a surname, a copy of the ‘Gazette Notification’ issued by the central government may be required. This step has been taken to prevent identity theft and ensure the authenticity of documents.
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Is a Gazette Notification necessary for everyone?
A Gazette Notification is not required in every situation. If you only need to correct a minor spelling mistake in your name, you may not need a Gazette Notification. However, in situations like completely changing your name or changing your surname after marriage, a Gazette Notification is mandatory, especially if you do not have other supporting documents.
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This process first involves obtaining an affidavit. Following this, an advertisement announcing the name change must be published in two newspapers (one English and one local language). These documents, along with photographs and the application, are then sent to the Department of Publication of the Government of India. Your new name is legally valid only after it is published in the Government Gazette.
Consequences of not following the rules
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If you do not complete this process, your application may be rejected. For example, if you apply for a name change at an Aadhaar center but do not submit a copy of the Gazette Notification, your request will be rejected. This not only affects Aadhaar but also prevents PAN card linking, causes discrepancies in bank account names, and can create difficulties in obtaining a passport. Inconsistencies in government records can also lead to problems in availing benefits from various schemes.
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Will help be available from the Delhi headquarters?
Some people think that if the work is not being done at the local level, they can get help from the UIDAI headquarters in Delhi. Note that the publication of the gazette is handled by the Department of Publication, which comes under the Ministry of Urban Development. Its main office is in Delhi. Once the name is published in the gazette, it is valid throughout India. UIDAI or any other institution cannot reject it. Therefore, instead of resorting to any shortcuts, following the correct procedure is the safest and most sensible approach.
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The complete name change process
To change your name, you will first need to get an affidavit. After that, you will have to publish an advertisement about the name change in two newspapers. Then, all the documents, photographs, and the application will be sent to the Department of Publication of the Government of India. After your name is published in the gazette, you can change your name on your Aadhaar, PAN, and all other documents.