Adoption Documentation Concerns After Retirement
Title: Legal Advice Needed: Adoption Documentation Concerns After Retirement
Background:
I'm a 70-year-old retired police man from a Hindu joint family. I was reportedly adopted by my uncle (Late Sh D. Rai) when I was 2 years old (around 1956). My biological father (Late Sh N. Rai) was my adoptive father's elder brother. All parties involved, including both my biological and adoptive parents, have since passed away.
Key Points:
Career History:
Served in State Police, retired in 2014 as ASI/LDC
Throughout my service, my adoptive father's name was used in all official documents
Initial recruitment papers and appointment letter listed my adoptive father's name
There was/is no mention of either name of my biological or adoptive father in my matriculation mark sheet or Board pass certificate, except my name, DOB, and roll number etc due to the then existing System of the Board.
Current Documentation Status:
No formal adoption papers available
Have a notarized affidavit from my adoptive father stating he adopted me at age 2
Have a supporting notarized affidavit from my aunt
All current official documents (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Bank accounts, pension papers) list my adoptive father's name
Family Structure:
Part of a joint family with 4 brothers and 1 sister
I am the eldest among siblings
Was raised in biological parents' home for education while adoptive father served elsewhere
Concern:
I'm worried about potential future complications for myself and my children due to the lack of formal adoption documentation. My adoptive father's name has been used in all official records throughout my life and career, but there are no formal adoption papers.
Query:
What legal steps should I take to regularize my adoption status and protect my children from any future complications? Need advice on the proper course of action to ensure legal validity of my adoption.