Gender Change in India - An Overview

The freedom to choose one’s gender is a legal right granted to every Indian citizen, irrespective of caste and creed. When an individual feels that his or her identity does not match the birth gender, the person decides to undergo gender reassignment and are called transsexuals. They usually opt for medical assistance to transition to another sex. Gender change has to be officially notified to the weekly Gazette, published by the Department of Publication, Government of India.

  Gender change legal procedure in India

Creating The Gender Change Affidavit

Once you have decided to change your gender the first step is to draft an affidavit declaring the change of gender. The affidavit must adhere to the format as prescribed by the Department of Publication. It has to state your name, address, father’s name, age, and gender. It is to be noted that all the details mentioned in the affidavit should be the same as mentioned in the supporting government identity proof. The affidavit must be on printed on a stamp paper and should be notarized.

  Rejection of Gender Change Application

There are some instances where the department might reject the application if any of the prescribed procedures and formats are not followed. In case the gender change application is rejected, a fresh application has to be filed with the department. It is advisable to seek the assistance of a legal expert to ensure that there are no mistakes and all the legal requirements are complied with.

  Documents required for gender change application

For preparing an application for change of gender the below-mentioned documents are required: Self-attested identity proof copies (Aadhar/Voter ID/Passport) Two self-attested passport size photographs. An original newspaper in which gender change advertisement was given. A specimen proforma as prescribed by the department, duly signed by the applicant and two major witnesses. A declaration stating that the contents in the application are true. A request letter together with the registration fee to the authority

  Newspaper publication after Name Change in India

Newspaper advertisement is a part of the process. The advertisement goes out in one national newspaper.

Also, its recommended to retain the copies of the published newspaper for future reference.

A Name Change advertisement in a newspaper usually contains all the details listed below:

The old name of the applicant

The new name of the applicant

Father’s/husband’s name

Age of the applicant

Address

Number of the affidavit for name change created prior by the applicant

  Central Gazette publication after name change

Central Gazette is a better option to publish your name change advertisement and for government employees, it is a mandatory step. You need to send the following documents to the department of publication

FAQs on Gender Change