A university has expelled a student who publicly called for accountability in the aftermath of a fatal fire in Hong Kong, a decision that has triggered renewed debate over freedom of expression and institutional discipline.

The student had used social media and campus forums to question the circumstances surrounding the blaze and to urge officials to clarify potential lapses in safety enforcement and oversight.

The fire, which claimed multiple lives and left others injured, has prompted citywide scrutiny of building standards and emergency response procedures.

University administrators said the expulsion followed an internal review process, citing alleged breaches of student conduct rules.

In a statement, the institution maintained that its decision was based on established disciplinary policies and not on the substance of public debate.

Officials did not disclose full details of the findings but said the matter had been handled in accordance with campus regulations.

The case has drawn attention from student groups and civil society advocates, some of whom argue that calls for accountability in the wake of a public tragedy fall within the bounds of legitimate civic discourse.

Others contend that universities retain the authority to regulate conduct they deem disruptive or in violation of institutional guidelines.

Hong Kong authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, with preliminary assessments focusing on compliance with fire safety codes and the maintenance of building infrastructure.

The incident has heightened public sensitivity around regulatory enforcement, particularly in densely populated districts where aging structures and mixed-use properties are common.

The student has not publicly indicated whether an appeal will be pursued.

The episode underscores broader tensions between institutional governance, public accountability and the boundaries of expression in the aftermath of high-profile emergencies.