MOSCOW, Aug. 22 — The Kremlin, in its first substantial reaction to last week's coup in Bangladesh, hinted today that it was concerned that the overthrow of Sheik Mujibur Rahman might swing her away from the Soviet Union and toward China.

In an authoritative commentary, the Communist party newspaper Pravda contended that “political observers in various countries” were asking whether “forces hostile” to the aspirations of the Bangladesh people might now exert “an influence on future developments in the country.” The Soviet press often uses the device of quoting others to express Moscow's sentiments.

“This anxiety is well‐founded since such forces actually exist,” Pravda asserted. “These are imperialism, Maoism and internal reaction.”

The coup in Bangladesh comes at a time when the Soviet Union is apprehensive about increasing, Chinese influence in South and Southeast Asia after the war in Indochina. Moscow has increasingly accused Peking of trying to press its hegemony over the region, in part by subverting legitimate governments.

The Pravda commentary was nonetheless cautious in tone, making clear that the Soviet Union wanted to remain in good standing with the new Government in Dacca. It noted that President Khandakar Mushtaque Ahmed had said he would abide by Bangladesh's existing treaties and agreements.

The coup is also believed to trouble the Kremlin because it has carefully cultivated its relations with Bangladesh. During the 1971 Bangladesh war for independence, the Soviet Union supported the secessionist movement and subsequently became the first major power to extend diplomatic recognition.

Besides offering aid and technicians, the Russians sent minesweepers to clear the port of Chittagong and brought Sheik Mujib to Moscow for medical treatment, as well as for discussions.

Today, Pravda indicated the Kremlin's unhappiness over Sheik Mujib's slaying, saying that it had “called forth the righteous indignation of democratic public opinion.”

Pravda recalled India's close ties to the former regime in Dacca by referring to Prime Minister Indira ‘Gandhi's praise of the late President.

“The Soviet people also grieve over the tragic death of Mujibur Rahman who had contributed to the establishment, and development of friendly relations and cooperation,” the paper said.

The commentary was signed by “An Observer”, usually an indication that it was prepared under Kremlin‐level supervision.