Name changes are not uncommon in India and can occur for various reasons such as marriage, adoption, religious conversion or personal preference. However, the question remains whether one can use their old name after a name change. In this blog, we will explore the laws and procedures for changing your name in India and whether you can use your old name after the change.
Legal Requirements for Name Change in India:
The process of changing your name in India involves obtaining a legal document that certifies the change. This document is usually called a Deed Poll or an Affidavit. In order to obtain this document, you must first publish a notice of your intention to change your name in a newspaper. This is to give others an opportunity to object to the name change if they wish.
Once the notice has been published, you must submit the necessary documents and a fee to the concerned government authority, such as the Registrar of Births and Deaths or the State Home Department. The documents required may vary depending on the state you reside in, but typically include proof of identity, proof of residence, and the notice of the name change published in the newspaper.
Can You Use Your Old Name After a Name Change?
Once you have successfully changed your name, you are legally bound to use your new name. This means that your old name is no longer valid, and you must use your new name on all official documents, including passport, PAN card, driving license, bank account, etc.
However, there may be instances where you may want to use your old name for personal or sentimental reasons. In such cases, you can use your old name informally, but you must use your new name for all official purposes. It is important to note that informally using your old name does not change your legal name, and you must still use your new name for legal purposes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, changing your name in India is a legal process that requires obtaining a Deed Poll or an Affidavit. Once you have changed your name, you are legally bound to use your new name for all official purposes. While you can informally use your old name, it does not change your legal name. It is important to follow the rules and procedures for changing your name to avoid any legal complications.
0
