“The one common thread to all their complaints is the betrayal of trust,” said attorney Mary Shea, who represents the women.
“It’s human nature. People are always looking for spiritual leaders. When you have traditional churches failing and people are looking for spiritual guidance, it is not surprising that people go to other arenas,” Shea told CNN. “He told them he is on the same level as Buddha and Jesus Christ.”
Choudhury is not facing any criminal charges and has denied any wrongdoing.
In 2013, the president of his yoga college released a statement responding to one of the lawsuits. It wasn’t immediately clear which one.
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It alleges she was assaulted again in 2011. That time, Anderson refused Choudhury’s advances but, as a result, was retaliated against in her business, the suit says.
“There have been women, suffering in silence, who now feel that there is security in numbers,” said Shea, adding that she wouldn’t be surprised if more victims step forward.
“We are moving in the right direction. We are confident, and we believe in our clients, and I believe in the justice system,” she said. “Truth will prevail.”
CNN’s Mayra Cuevas contributed to this report.
