My father is abusive, and I want to drop his surname. I'm 18, and a lawyer told me I can't change it, but my father can. How is this fair? I know I can change my name entirely, but what's the right way to go about changing my surname?

You can approach the Tahsildar with available documents, including your children’s birth certificates and any proof of your family’s residence. Explain your situation and request a caste certificate based on your own family’s lineage. The Tahsildar may require additional documentation or investigate your case further to verify your caste.