Why was there confusion and debate about Sai Baba's final rites after he passed away?

Chapter 44 explains that after Baba's breath left His body, a period of deliberation and debate began among the Hindu and Muslim devotees that lasted for twenty-six hours. The core of the confusion stemmed from a past incident, which the chapter alludes to. Thirty-two years prior, Baba had once drawn His life force into the crown of His head for three full days, appearing to be dead. However, He suddenly returned to His body, dispelling everyone's anxiety. Because of this precedent, when He finally passed, devotees were doubtful whether it was a final departure or another deep Samadhi (trance) from which He might rise again, leading to the prolonged debate on how to proceed with the final rites.