Citing the rejection of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operational head Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi's bail plea, an editorial in a leading Pakistani newspaper has said that it is time for the country to evolve a strong legal system to boost its fight against terrorism.

Lakhvi is among the seven suspects charged with planning and helping to execute the 26/11, 2008, Mumbai terror attacks.

The editorial in Dawn highlighted that a strong legal system would send a clear message that the country is earnest about fighting terror.

"It would also be in Pakistan's own interest to do so," the editorial added.

It also stressed that as the trial was being watched closely by India and the world, it was now crucial to prepare a watertight case based on solid, credible proof.

"Indeed, Pakistani courts have often been unable to convict suspected terrorists because of lack of credible proof. A combination of poor investigation techniques, insufficient security for witnesses and a legal system with loopholes has made such convictions difficult, giving the impression - to both terrorists and the countries they target - that Pakistan is not serious about cracking down on militancy," the editorial said.

"This can only make for acrimonious relations vis-'-vis the international community," it added.

Earlier, on Monday, an anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi dismissed the bail petition on the ground that it could not be maintained.

The next hearing of the case is scheduled for September 18. (ANI)