Aadhaar Update Rules: We often overlook minor errors in government documents, but when it comes to the Aadhaar card, even a small mistake can lead to big trouble. If you think that changing your name or correcting your surname on your Aadhaar card is as easy as it used to be, you need to update your information. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has tightened the rules, and now a simple affidavit will not be enough for any major name change. You may have to go through the lengthy process of a Gazette Notification.

Have the rules changed for the common man?
It's natural for the general public to wonder if the rules have really changed. The answer is yes. The process of changing your name on the Aadhaar card has now been made more secure and formal. While earlier a letter from a local councilor or a simple notary affidavit would suffice, now, if you are making significant changes to your name (such as changing your full name or adding/removing a surname), the UIDAI may require a Gazette Notification issued by the Central Government. These rules have been tightened to prevent identity theft and maintain the authenticity of the documents.

The biggest question is, will everyone have to go through this process? If there is only a minor spelling mistake in your name, you probably won't need to. However, if your name is changing completely, or your surname is changing after marriage, and you don't have any strong supporting evidence, then a Gazette Notification is necessary.

Under this process, first, you have to get an affidavit prepared. After that, you have to publish an advertisement about the name change in two newspapers (one English and one in a local language). Finally, all these documents, photographs, and the application form have to be sent to the Department of Publication of the Government of India. Once your new name is published in the official Gazette, it becomes legally valid.

What are the consequences of not following the rules?
If a person does not follow this process, the result is straightforward: rejection of the application. For example, if you apply for a name change at an Aadhaar center but don't submit a copy of the Gazette notification, your request may be rejected. This impact is not limited to Aadhaar alone. If your Aadhaar is not updated, your PAN card will not be linked, there will be a name mismatch in your bank account, and you will face difficulties in obtaining a passport. Discrepancies in government records can also cause problems in availing the benefits of government schemes.

Will the Delhi headquarters assist?
Many people think that if the work is not being done at the local level, they should contact the headquarters in Delhi. It's important to know that the Gazette publication is handled by the Department of Publication, which comes under the Ministry of Urban Development, and its main office is in Delhi. Once your name is published in the Gazette, it is valid throughout India. Neither UIDAI nor any other institution can reject it. Therefore, instead of trying shortcuts, it is wise to follow the correct procedure. As soon as you receive the copy of the Gazette, you can confidently get your name changed in your Aadhaar, PAN, and all other documents.

How to change your name?
There is no need to panic about this process. If you take the right steps, the process will be easy. Here is the complete procedure:

Get an affidavit: First, you need to get an affidavit prepared by a notary. It should clearly state your old name, new name, and the reason for the name change.

Newspaper advertisement: After this, you need to publish an advertisement in two newspapers: one in a local language newspaper of your area and the other in an English newspaper. This serves as a public announcement that you have changed your name. Application at the Gazette Office: Now you will have to apply to the 'Department of Publication' with your affidavit, newspaper clipping, ID proof, photograph, and a CD (containing the typed matter).

Waiting for Publication: The government department will verify your documents, and if everything is found to be correct, your new name will be published in the Gazette of India (Official Gazette).

Aadhaar Update: Once you receive the copy of the Gazette, you can upload it as a supporting document on the UIDAI website and get your Aadhaar updated.

What to do if it still doesn't work?
Sometimes, even after the Gazette notification, the system doesn't update, especially in cases of 'exception handling'. In such a situation, you don't need to despair. If your Aadhaar is not updated even after the Gazette notification, you can directly call the UIDAI helpline number 1947 or send an email to help@uidai.net.in. The Gazette notification is a powerful document that no government department can deny.

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